By USINDOPACOM Public Affairs

CAMP SMITH (April 24, 2019) – Commander, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), Adm. Phil Davidson, hosted the Chief of Staff, Joint Staff, of Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF), Gen. Koji Yamazaki, at USINDOPACOM headquarters.

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed the current security environment in the
Indo-Pacific region, the importance of continuing to maintain close coordination on exercises, and opportunities to enhance interoperability.

“It was a pleasure to have Gen. Yamazaki here at USINDOPACOM,” said Davidson. “The U.S. Japan alliance remains the cornerstone for peace and security in the region, and together we are committed to ensuring the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.”


Yamazaki expressed his gratitude to Davidson and the more than 300,000 Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, Coast Guardsmen and Department of Defense civilians for their contribution to the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region.

This is Yamazaki’s first time visiting USINDOPACOM since assuming his new role as the 6th Chief of Staff, Joint Staff of the JSDF. The visit demonstrates the shared common values and interests between Japan and the U.S. and emphasizes both nations’ commitment to the security of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

USINDOPACOM protects and defends, in concert with other U.S. Government agencies, the territory of the United States, its people, and its interests. With allies and partners, USINDOPACOM is committed to enhancing stability in the Indo-Pacific region by promoting security cooperation, encouraging peaceful development, responding to contingencies, deterring aggression, and, when necessary, fighting to win. This approach is based on partnership, presence, and military readiness.